Looming
Looming
Looming (/ˈluːmɪŋ/) is a term used in psychology and neuroscience to describe the rapid approach of an object towards an observer. The term is derived from the Old English word lōmian, which means to appear, come into sight.
Etymology
The term 'looming' is derived from the Old English lōmian, which means to appear or come into sight. It was first used in the context of visual perception in the early 20th century.
Perception of Looming
In visual perception, looming is perceived when an object rapidly increases in size on the retina, indicating that the object is quickly approaching the observer. This is often associated with a sense of urgency or threat, and can trigger a fight or flight response in many animals, including humans.
Looming in Neuroscience
In neuroscience, the study of looming has contributed to our understanding of how the brain processes visual information. Research has shown that certain neurons in the superior colliculus, a part of the brain involved in visual processing, are specifically tuned to detect looming stimuli. These neurons, known as 'looming detectors', play a crucial role in triggering defensive behaviors in response to approaching threats.
Related Terms
- Optical flow: The pattern of apparent motion of objects, surfaces, and edges in a visual scene caused by the relative motion between an observer and the scene.
- Motion perception: The process of inferring the speed and direction of elements in a scene based on visual, vestibular and proprioceptive inputs.
- Superior colliculus: A part of the brain located in the midbrain that plays a role in visual processing and motor control.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Looming
- Wikipedia's article - Looming
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